The cheese ball from the 70’s has been redefined as mini cheese ball bites. Simple and satisfying Mini Cheese Balls are quick, easy and incredibly delicious!
Mini Cheese Balls
A cheese ball is a sight to behold however mini cheese balls are tasty any time of the year. Roll them in your favourite spices or fresh herbs and serve them as an afternoon snack or light bite before a big meal.
History of the Cheese Ball
According to legend,” writes Michelle Buffardi, author of Great Balls of Cheese, “the first cheese ball in recorded history was made in 1801 by Elisha Brown, Jr. on his farm and presented to President Thomas Jefferson” at the White House.
If you are interested in learning more, writer, Jennifer Russel delves more into the history of the cheese ball in her piece titled: “Respect the cheese ball: It’s the perfect party food”. There is even a book about cheese balls called “Great Balls of Cheese” featuring all kinds of great information and recipes for those wanting to learn more.
The Inspiration
In the 90’s our office group hosted regular lunch time potlucks. A co-worker would make mini cheese balls rolled in chili powder and I gushed over them every time she’d bring them.
They were so good I’ve recreated the recipe many times rolling them in everything from cumin, taco powder, za’atar, fresh parsley with fresh dill and of course chili powder.
Smoked paprika, bagel seasoning, garam masala or curry might be on my list next.
Since we’ve sampled or made them several times over the years, here are a few tips and tricks on making sure they come out perfect for your next gathering.
PRO TIPS:
- Make them tiny bites. Roughly 1 tsp sized so you can pop them in your mouth and eat several without feeling guilty.
- Try a variety of fresh herbs.
- Once rolled refrigerate. One hour before serving remove from fridge to bring to room temperature.
- Use your favourite spice blend (even BBQ and/or for meats or fish), or create your own.
More easy appetizers:
- Grilled Skewered Olives
- Banh Mi Sliders
- Curried Up Spinach Dip (a new spin on a classic)
If you made this recipe tag Wanda Baker on Instagram and hashtag it #bakersbeans or #wandabaker
Ingredients
- 12 oz softened cream cheese 1 & 1/2 blocks
- 2 cups old cheddar cheese grated
- 1/4 cup gouda cheese grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 scallion chopped fine
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary chopped fine
- Spice Ideas 1-2 tbsp: taco seasoning, chili powder, fresh chopped parsley, za'atar spice
Instructions
- Mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, gouda cheese, garlic, scallion and rosemary. Pour your spices on a plate.
- You can make these whatever size you want but I keep them mini.
- Scoop up about 1 tsp or less of the cheese mixture and roll into a ball. Continue until all the cream cheese mixture has been used.
- Roll ball in your chili powder ensuring completely covered.
- Serve immediately or keep in refrigerator until ready to serve.
I’m making these for a Thanksgiving starter. They look so good!
These look like a perfect superbowl snack!
Thanks Candice, they are the perfect little bite. And really you can use any spice!
Mmmm….these look so good!
Thanks Fareen – they are dangerous to (eat too many or even all of them lol)!
I would never think of making this but they look so good and a perfect appetizer!
Thanks Helene – you can use any spice you like on these little bites!
Tiny little bites of perfection in my book. I can’t wait to try these cheeseballs this weekend at our pool party. I bet the guests will love them
One of the things I like about them is they are tiny, so you can eat more!
These mini cheese balls were super hit with my friends, so delicious!
This is the best cheeseball variation I’ve ever seen! I love the idea of being able to serve tiny, complete cheeseballs to guests. Fantastic.
Love these simple but delicious cheese balls. Perfect as an appetizer and everyone adores them!
I love that you added gouda in these delicious mini cheeseballs. They are a perfect appetizer.
Such a delicious little appetizer! The chili powder gives them the perfect amount of flavor and this size is such a fun way to serve them. Thanks for the recipe!